Psoriasis Behind the Knees: Signs, Causes, and Effective Treatments

Psoriasis can develop on any part of the body, including the area behind your knees. The approach to treatment varies based on the specific type and severity of psoriasis you experience.

Psoriasis is an autoimmune disorder that accelerates the production of skin cells, leading to raised, inflamed patches that can be itchy and painful.

In the United States, psoriasis affects approximately 3% of adults, totaling over 7.5 million individuals.

Psoriasis behind the knees requires tailored treatment depending on the subtype and symptom intensity.

Common Psoriasis Types Found Behind the Knees

Several forms of psoriasis can affect the area behind the knees, with some types more prevalent than others.

Plaque Psoriasis on the Back of the Knees

Plaque psoriasis is the most widespread form, often appearing as thickened, red, scaly patches that may be itchy or sore. This type typically presents symmetrically, meaning both knees are usually affected.

Inverse Psoriasis in Knee Folds

Inverse psoriasis targets skin folds such as those behind the knees, armpits, and under the breasts. The affected skin tends to be smooth, shiny, and red, purple, or brown depending on your skin tone. It can appear on one or both knees.

Guttate Psoriasis Behind the Knees

Guttate psoriasis often follows infections and is more common among children and adults aged 20-30 and 50-60. It manifests as small, drop-shaped bumps on the skin behind the knees.

Recognizing Psoriasis Symptoms Behind Your Knees

Symptoms vary by psoriasis type but commonly include:

• Raised, scaly patches that may be itchy or painful. On lighter skin, these patches are red with silvery scales; on darker skin, they may appear purple or dark brown with grayish scales.
• Smooth, well-defined areas of skin that might be moist or macerated, showing colors ranging from red to brown depending on skin tone.
• Small, round raised spots that may or may not have scaling.
• Dry, cracked skin that can cause itching or bleeding.

What Triggers Psoriasis Behind the Knees?

Psoriasis results from an overactive immune response, often influenced by genetics and environmental factors.

Triggers for guttate psoriasis include infections such as strep throat, sinus infections, flu, and tonsillitis. Medications like antimalarials and beta-blockers, stress, and skin injuries can also provoke flare-ups.

Inverse psoriasis may be worsened by sweating, friction from skin folds, and lifestyle factors like alcohol and tobacco use.

Effective Ways to Manage Psoriasis on the Knees

While some home remedies can alleviate symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is essential for persistent or severe cases.

Home Care Strategies

• Manage stress with meditation, walking, or relaxing activities.
• Use gentle, natural cleansers during bathing.
• Soak affected areas in whole milk to soothe skin.
• Add table salt to baths to help remove scales gently.

Over-the-Counter Options

• Apply anti-inflammatory moisturizers regularly.
• Use topical products containing salicylic acid, coal tar, capsaicin, or aloe vera.
• Try creams and lotions formulated specifically for psoriasis.

Professional Medical Treatments

If symptoms persist, doctors may recommend:

• Topical corticosteroids to reduce inflammation.
• Nonsteroidal creams like anthralin or vitamin A and D derivatives.
• Phototherapy with UVB or PUVA light treatments.
• Systemic medications such as methotrexate.
• Biologic drugs like Enbrel or Humira.

Other Causes of Itchy Skin Behind the Knees

Itchy patches behind the knees can also be caused by:

• Insect bites.
• Chronic conditions including thyroid disorders, iron deficiency anemia, and hepatitis.
• Skin issues like dry skin, hives, eczema, or lichen planus.
• Allergic reactions to fabrics, dyes, plants, or sun exposure.
• Infections such as chickenpox or ringworm.
• Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Consult a healthcare provider if:

• You experience unexplained symptoms behind the knees.
• Home treatments fail to improve known psoriasis.
• You encounter side effects from psoriasis medications.
• Prescription therapies do not alleviate your symptoms.

Summary

Psoriasis can affect the area behind the knees in several forms. Plaque psoriasis usually appears symmetrically with scaly patches, guttate psoriasis presents as small bumps often after infections, and inverse psoriasis shows smooth, colored patches in skin folds.

Home remedies may ease mild symptoms, but professional treatment is key for managing more severe cases effectively.

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